2016 Aston Martin Vantage GT12 Roadster

You might think that Mercedes new kid on the block, the Mercedes-AMG GT R was the show stopper at the just concluded Goodwood Festival of Speed. Well, you are dead wrong, the event being close home, Aston Martin outclassed the German automaker with their new fire breathing monster christened the 2016 Aston Martin Vantage GT12 Roadster. If you want one, don’t even bother as only one model is on offer here requested by a mysterious moneyed guy.

The model is based on the limited Vantage GT12 Coupe. Rumor is rife that this mysterious buyer was so impressed by the Coupe version that he figured himself riding an open top version of it. Talk of dreaming and letting your money do the hard work. As its nametag suggests, the model is powered by the same engine that motivates the GT12 Vantage Coupe.

The vehicle is built by Aston Martin’s bespoke Q division. Read along to find out what Aston Martin can do for your pockets are deep enough.

2016 Aston Martin Vantage GT12 Roadster Exterior

The 2016 Aston Martin Vantage GT12 Roadster is as aggressive as the Coupe it is based on. In addition, it adds its own unique features that make it stand apart from the Coupe. The whole exterior body panels are made of carbon fiber which ensured the automaker achieved the desired lightness.

The model is very aerodynamic as it borrows aerodynamic components of the GT3. It features a wider front and rear tracks. The Roadster rides on gigantic Michelin Pilot super Sports tires. Its carbon air vents, a race-like diffuser and new slashes make the grey finished Roadster one aggressive yet beautiful monster. Being a customized model, the automaker did not divulge much information.

2016 Aston Martin Vantage GT12 Roadster Interior

On the inside, we are told that the model offers similar equipment as the standard Vantage Coupe including carbon-fiber on most of the surfaces. However, the retractable roof means it has all the headroom in the world. Sadly, Aston Martin did not offer more information on the cabin.

However, I expect more customization to suit the owner’s tastes and preferences. The seats must be upholstered in the most premium hide money can buy and will certainly feature some of the most up-to-date technologies in the industry.

Engine Specs and performance

Under the hood, the special Vantage carries the same engine as the GT12 Coupe. The engine is a 6.0 L, V-12 engine which spits out 595 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a 7-speed Sportshift III transmission system which features shift paddles.

However, things get better with its exhaust. Unlike the coupe, the roadster features a full titanium exhaust system. We are told that the buyer specifically wanted to hear a special roar of the mode and boy! Aston has made his wish come true. To further enhance the exhaust system, the model is fitted with butterfly valves which automatically open when the model hits past 4000 rpm.

Price

Aston Martin did not reveal the amount the mysterious guy paid to have his personally customized Aston Martin. However, the Vantage GT12 Coupe on which it is based starts at £250,000; we can therefore safely assume that the new Roadster being extremely customized is much more expensive. It is probably worth over £300,000. However, if you can spare that kind of money on a two-wheeler, Aston Martin will be happily ready to reveal all the details you want about the model.

It is good that Aston Martin has finally moved from just offering customized color schemes to offering a full bespoke model. The automaker’s Advanced Operations department has really excelled given they have made the car in only 9 months.

This development opens up the door for other moneyed buyers to get customized Aston Martins, after all with the Brexit effects on the country’s currency, Aston Martins are set to become more affordable.